Teen filmmaking camp at UNC-Chapel Hill

Lens is a 1-week hands-on summer camp for aspiring teen filmmakers to learn the art of storytelling, cinematography, and film editing.

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1-week summer 2025
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On campus: UNC-Chapel Hill
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Personalized guidance from trained film & production experts.
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Learn storytelling, cinematography, & editing
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Program overview

How it works

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Are you an aspiring 9th-12th grade filmmaker? The next Speilberg or Nolan? Want to get started on making movies? Let’s make your first big hit!

Lens is a 1-week hands-on film camp designed for aspiring teen filmmakers to learn the art of storytelling, cinematography, and film editing.

Hosted on campus at UNC-Chapel Hill, this immersive experience provides students with access to industry-standard equipment, expert mentorship, and a collaborative environment.

Lens students will create their own short films from concept to final cut, with a premiere screening at a local movie theater.

Important details:

  • Eligibility: current 9th-12th grade student
  • Location: UNC-Chapel Hill
  • Dates: multiple 1-week sessions in July 2025
  • Cost: $1,995 (including housing & meals)
  • Size: 15-20 students per week
  • Staff: experienced filmmaking professionals (see below)
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About us

Meet our Film Director

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With over a decade of experience in filmmaking and education, Brett Ellison has been dedicated to inspiring the next generation of storytellers. As the director of Brachiosaurus Productions Filmmaking Camp for over eight years, he guided more than 300 students through the filmmaking process, helping them learn the short film creative process.

Beyond teaching, Brett has spent over 10 years directing and producing his own travel series, Vlogzilla, on YouTube, capturing fun and exciting stories from around the world. His professional experience includes producing video marketing content for NC State University, Subkarma in Taichung, Lenovo, Horizon Productions, and Storymore. With a passion for storytelling and hands-on learning, Brett is committed to inspiring filmmakers with the skills and confidence to create their own stories.

  • Expert-led film instruction
  • World-class speakers
  • Small-group learning
  • Experience life on college campus
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Topics we cover at Lens

Every day is packed at Lens film camp. From breakfast at 8am to lights out, the day is packed with sessions, hands-on activities, and learning.

1
Introduction to Filmmaking, Story Development & Scriptwriting
2
Pre-Production, Scriptwriting, and Shot Planning
3
Production and Editing – Editing in Adobe Creative Suite

What do you get?

Lens is a hands-on camp with real learning objectives. Here are a few things you will get during your camp:

1
Film set experience

Students will gain hands-on experience with professional DSLR cameras and additionally learn Adobe Creative Suite, including Premiere Pro for editing.

2
On campus living

Students will stay on campus in UNC dormitories, providing a full immersive college-like experience.

3
Professional mentorship

Guided by experienced filmmakers and educators, students will receive expert instruction and guidance throughout the camp.

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why lens

What makes us different

Lens summer camps are small group experiences tailored toward expert mentorship and real film production.

Students who attend Lens will build their storytelling, cinematography, and film editing skills and prepare for advanced film work.

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10+ years
Our team has over a decade of experience.
15-20
Each Lens cohort is only 15-20 students.
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FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

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01
Who is this camp for?
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What will I learn at this film camp?
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What is a typical day?
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Do I have to bring my own equipment?
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Will I work individually or in groups?
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What software will students use?
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What is the admissions process?
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How much does Lens cost? What's included?
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What are the dates?
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When is the application deadline?
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Is there any financial aid?
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Will there be a final screening of the film?
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Have more questions?
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Apply now for 2025

Don't wait! Application for Lens summer 2025 programs are open now.

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Testimonials

Customers Review

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Darlene Robertson
Florida, US

I can't say enough positive things about this platform. The courses are comprehensive and well-paced, with a perfect balance of theory and hands-on practice that allowed me to grasp complex concepts quickly.

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Cameron Williamson
Dallas, US

I also appreciated the opportunity to connect with other students and instructors through the platform's community features, which allowed me to network, share insights, and collaborate on projects.

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Brooklyn Simmons
Toronto, US

The instructor's passion for photography was contagious, and the course projects were both fun and challenging. I've already seen an improvement in my photography skills. Overall, a great learning experience.

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Leslie Alexander
Texas, US

I loved this course! The instructor broke down complex data analysis techniques in easy-to-understand concepts. I feel much more confident in my data analysis skills now. This course was fantastic.

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Marvin McKinney
New York,US

This course exceeded my expectations! The instructor was patient and provided clear explanations throughout the course. I feel confident in my web development skills now.  Highly recommend!

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Ronald Richards
Grorgia, US

This course provided a great introduction to creative writing techniques. The instructor's passion for writing was evident, and I appreciated the constructive feedback on my assignments.

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